Sat Jun 21 08:40:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:

**Tornado Watch Issued for Over 5 Million in Illinois, Missouri, Including St. Louis**

**ST. LOUIS, MO -** A tornado watch is in effect for over 5 million people in parts of central and southern Illinois, and a section of eastern Missouri, including the city of St. Louis, until 5 p.m. ET today, according to the Storm Prediction Center (SPC). The SPC warns that thunderstorms are expected to rapidly develop over eastern Missouri and western Illinois this morning and move northeast across the affected areas.

The primary threats associated with these storms are large hail, up to the size of eggs, and strong wind gusts reaching up to 70 mph (112 km/h). The SPC also states that a few tornadoes are likely.

Portions of the watch area are under a level 3 out of 5 threat for severe thunderstorms. Authorities have cautioned that additional tornado warnings may be issued later today as the storms progress eastward. Residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions.

Read More